Isolating age-group differences in working memory load-related neural activity: Assessing the contribution of working memory capacity using a partial-trial fMRI method

► Age group differences in working memory load-related activity were examined. ► A partial-trial manipulation isolated neural activity from each task period. ► Activity increased (decreased) as a function of load in younger (older) adults. ► The contribution of working memory capacity to load effects was also assessed. ► For older adults, load-related activity did not vary with working memory capacity.